Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous lumps that grow in or on the muscle of the uterus. They often affect women between the ages of 30 and 50 and can be small or large, with one or many appearing. Common symptoms include heavy periods, pain in the lower belly, and pressure in the pelvis or back.
Many treatment options can feel limiting or involve long recovery times. Surgery, such as removing the fibroids or the uterus, is often effective but carries more risks. Hormone treatments may help for a while, but often have side effects and do not fix the problem fully.
Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is a non-surgical treatment that has become more popular in recent years. This blog shares what the procedure involves, how it works, and why many are choosing it. The aim is to help people learn about UAE as a gentler way to treat fibroids.
What is Uterine Artery Embolisation?
Uterine artery embolisation is a non-surgical procedure that treats fibroids by stopping the blood supply they rely on to grow. A medical specialist targets the specific arteries connected to the fibroids and blocks them. Without blood flow, the fibroids shrink over time, which can help reduce pain and heavy bleeding.
This method is a less invasive option for those who want to manage fibroid symptoms without undergoing surgery. It is usually carried out by an interventional radiologist in a hospital. The main goal is to ease symptoms while keeping the uterus intact.
How the UAE Procedure is Performed
During the procedure, a doctor places a thin catheter into a blood vessel near the groin or wrist. Imaging tools are used to guide the catheter towards the arteries that supply blood to the uterus. Once in place, tiny synthetic particles are released through the catheter to block the blood flow.
These particles enter only the targeted vessels and do not affect nearby tissues. Without a regular blood supply, the fibroids begin to shrink. As this happens, related symptoms usually start to decrease gradually.
A Gentle Approach: Key Benefits of UAE
Uterine artery embolisation does not involve large cuts, so healing is usually quicker and easier. It is often done with local anaesthetic, and most people do not need to stay in hospital overnight. This makes it a good choice for those who want to avoid surgery.
Since the uterus is not removed, it is a suitable option for people who want to keep their reproductive organs. This may be important for those thinking about having children later. The short recovery time also means most can return to normal routines sooner.
Effectiveness of Uterine Artery Embolisation
Many women begin to feel relief from their symptoms not long after the procedure. As the fibroids slowly shrink, problems like heavy periods and pelvic discomfort usually improve. This often results in a more comfortable daily life over time.
The benefits of the treatment tend to last, with many people continuing to feel better well after the procedure. Both medical studies and clinical experience show that UAE works well for treating fibroids. It is considered a reliable option for those who want to manage symptoms without having surgery.
How Uterine Artery Embolisation Works
Understanding how uterine artery embolisation treats fibroids starts with knowing what fuels their growth. Fibroids depend on a steady blood supply, and UAE works by disrupting this flow. The following sections explain how this process unfolds and what results can be expected.
Blood Supply and Fibroid Growth
Fibroids develop and grow when they receive oxygen and nutrients from nearby blood vessels. The uterine arteries play a key role in delivering this supply. When these arteries are blocked, fibroids are deprived of what they need to grow.
UAE focuses on cutting off this vital blood flow. By targeting only the arteries feeding the fibroids, the rest of the uterus is not affected. This precise approach helps treat the condition while keeping healthy tissue intact.
What Happens After Embolisation?
Once the procedure is done, the fibroids stop getting the blood they need to grow. Without blood flow, they begin to shrink slowly over the next few weeks. This process takes time but leads to steady changes.
As the fibroids get smaller, symptoms often improve. Bleeding usually becomes lighter, and pressure in the pelvic area is reduced. This helps many women feel more comfortable in their daily routines.
Clinical Evidence
Medical findings have consistently shown that UAE leads to meaningful symptom relief. The procedure has helped many individuals manage fibroid-related problems effectively. These outcomes have encouraged its use in both private and public healthcare settings.
Health professionals often consider UAE a reliable choice because of its established results. It has been part of clinical practice for a significant period with positive patient outcomes. The success rate has contributed to its acceptance as a safe alternative to surgery.
Why Choose Uterine Artery Embolisation Over Surgery?
Not every fibroid treatment has to involve surgery. For many, a less invasive option like UAE offers practical advantages worth considering.
Comparison with Surgical Treatments
Traditional surgery for fibroids includes hysterectomy and myomectomy. Hysterectomy removes the entire uterus, while myomectomy targets just the fibroids. Both methods involve general anaesthesia and longer recovery periods.
UAE, on the other hand, uses a small incision and local anaesthetic. Most people return home the same day or after a short hospital stay. Recovery is often faster, allowing a quicker return to daily routines.
Pros and Cons
Surgical treatment may completely remove fibroids but carries more risks. Complications can include infection, heavy bleeding, or extended hospitalisation. UAE is less disruptive and has fewer potential side effects, though it may not suit every fibroid case.
A Suitable Choice for Many Women
UAE appeals to women who want to avoid major surgery or keep their uterus. It combines effective symptom relief with a less demanding recovery. Many see it as a practical and reliable option for managing fibroids.
What to Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure
Knowing what happens before, during, and after uterine artery embolisation can ease any concerns about the process. Each stage is carefully managed to ensure safety, comfort, and effective recovery.
Before the Procedure
The initial stage begins with a consultation where the doctor gathers information about symptoms and medical history. Imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound are used to examine the size, location, and number of fibroids. This helps the doctor decide whether UAE is the most suitable option.
Patients are given simple instructions to prepare for the procedure. These may include avoiding food and drink for several hours beforehand. It is also important to arrange for someone to assist with transport after the procedure.
During the Procedure
UAE usually takes one to two hours and does not require general anaesthesia. The patient stays awake and receives medication to remain calm and comfortable. A thin catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin or wrist.
Using X-ray guidance, the doctor moves the catheter toward the uterine artery. Tiny particles are then released to block the blood flow to the fibroids. Once this is done, the catheter is removed, and the area is bandaged—no stitches are required.
After the Procedure
Most women stay in the hospital for a short time to rest and recover. Pain or cramping may occur during the first few days and is usually managed with prescribed medication. Normal activities can often resume within a few days, with full recovery expected shortly after.
Follow-up care plays a key role in the recovery process. Doctors use these appointments to check healing, review new scans, and discuss any remaining concerns. Staying in touch with the healthcare provider ensures the best possible outcome.
Are There Risks or Side Effects of Uterine Artery Embolisation?
Like any medical procedure, UAE carries some risks and possible side effects. Most are mild and manageable, while serious complications are rare.
Common Side Effects
Some women experience pain, low-grade fever, or fatigue for a few days after UAE. These symptoms are generally mild and resolve with rest and medication. Nausea or minor bleeding may also occur temporarily.
Rare Risks
Although serious complications are uncommon, they can happen. Possible risks include infection, allergic reaction to the contrast dye, or unintended blockage of non-target blood vessels. In rare cases, early menopause may occur, particularly in women over 45.
Safety Measures
Doctors take several steps to ensure safety. These include careful imaging, sterile techniques, and post-procedure monitoring. Women are encouraged to report any unusual symptoms so they can be addressed quickly.
Can Uterine Artery Embolisation Help With Fertility?
Fertility is an important concern for many women considering fibroid treatment. UAE may be an option in some cases, but its impact on fertility can vary.
Fertility Considerations
Many women want to know if they can become pregnant after undergoing UAE. While some do go on to have healthy pregnancies, results differ from person to person. The procedure may not be recommended for those planning to conceive right away.
Clinical Insights
Medical studies have shown mixed outcomes regarding fertility after UAE. Some suggest a small decline in fertility compared to fibroid removal through surgery. Despite this, successful pregnancies after embolisation have been recorded in clinical practice.
Talk to Your Doctor
Anyone hoping to preserve fertility should consult a medical specialist before deciding on treatment. A gynaecologist or interventional radiologist can explain the risks and potential outcomes. Choosing the right option depends on personal circumstances and future plans.
Making Informed Choices for Fibroid Treatment
Uterine artery embolisation offers a non-surgical approach to managing fibroid symptoms, making it a valuable choice for many women. It allows for effective symptom control with fewer disruptions to daily life and avoids the long recovery associated with traditional surgery. For those who prefer to preserve their uterus and explore less invasive options, UAE may provide the right balance of safety and relief.
Discussing this option with a healthcare provider is essential for making an informed decision. Every woman’s medical needs and goals are different, and UAE may not be suitable for all cases. Reviewing all available treatments ensures that the chosen path supports both long-term health and personal comfort.
